George Moreira Costa

Publications (2)2.95 Total impact

• Article: Radiographic parameters of quality of root canal fillings and periapical status: a retrospective cohort study.

  Suelleng Maria Cunha Santos, Janir Alves Soares, George Moreira Costa, Manoel Brito-Júnior, Allyson Nogueira Moreira, Cláudia Silami de Magalhães
  [show abstract] [hide abstract]
  ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to radiographically evaluate the relationship between the quality parameters of root canal fillings (apical extension, homogeneity, and taper) and periapical status. In addition, groups of teeth and complicating factors of endodontic treatment were assessed. This retrospective cohort study assessed the quality and periapical status of root-filled canals in a 4- to 7-year follow-up period. Each parameter was dichotomized into ideal and altered conditions. A root-filled canal with an ideal condition for all 3 parameters was considered perfect, whereas the loss of 1 or more ideal conditions defined satisfactory or deficient fillings, respectively. The periapical statuses at baseline and follow-up were classified as normal, slight widening of the apical periodontal ligament, or periapical lesion. A total of 291 root-filled canals were evaluated. The prevalence of perfect, satisfactory, and deficient fillings was 54.6%, 37.5%, and 7.9%, respectively (P < .05). The periapical status at follow-up showed normal, slight widening of the apical periodontal ligament, or periapical lesion in 69.8%, 19.2%, and 11% of the roots, respectively (P < .05). The multivariate logistic regression showed that only preoperative periapical lesions (odds ratio, 2.99; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-7.03) and altered tapers (odds ratio, 3.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.51-9.24) were significantly associated with postoperative periapical lesions. Radiographic parameters of the quality of root-filled canals showed a significant relationship with the periapical status. Nevertheless, an altered taper was the main factor associated with the maintenance or development of periapical lesions after 4- to 7-year follow-up period.
  Journal of endodontics 12/2010; 36(12):1932-7. · 2.95 Impact Factor
• Article: Strategy for apexification of wide-open apex associated with extensive periapical lesion in a weakened root.

  George Moreira Costa, Suelleng Maria Cunha Santos Soares, Leandro Silva Marques, Jose Christiano Ramos Gloria, Janir Alves Soares
  [show abstract] [hide abstract]
  ABSTRACT: This case report describes successful apexification for a challenging case involving a 30-year-old man, who suffered from dental trauma involving tooth No. 7 (which had occurred several years earlier) and recently experienced acute periapical abscess in this region. Radiographic analysis revealed incomplete root formation, a wide-open apex, thin root canal walls, and an extensive periapical lesion. Chemomechanical debridement was performed gently using K-files and irrigation with a 1% sodium hypochlorite solution. The root canal was filled with a calcium hydroxide paste, which was replaced periodically. At 18 months post-treatment, an apical barrier tissue and significant reduction of periapical radiolucency were observed; at that time, the entire root canal was filled with gray mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). At a follow-up 16 months later, the tooth had normal function and periapical repair was complete.
  General dentistry 61(3):e2-4.